Jewish Heritage Expeditions

The Netherlands - May 22 - 30, 2017

'Mokum & the Medinah'

Mokum is the Dutch-Yiddish word for “safe haven,” derived from the Hebrew word makom מקום (place). Jews all over the world dubbed Amsterdam Mokum because Jews were relatively safe and free in the Netherlands, unlike in other places in Europe.

During this unique tour we explore Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Encounter the strikingly rich history of this small brave kingdom that opened its gates to the Jews and enabled them to grow into an impressive, affluent community. During the tour there are special opportunities to make connections and meet with the community that still remains.

Spain - March 20 - 26, 2017

'Maranos & Inquisition'

Welcome to Spain and join us as we explore this country with a very rich Jewish history. The tour includes famous sites as well as sites “off the beaten track”. Through visits to various sites that include old synagogues, learn about the period before the expulsion of 1492 and meet modern Jewish life in Spain.

The rich Jewish heritage in Spain is explored and studied during the tour. This tour exposes the participant to the most important centers of Judaism of the 14th and 15th century: Toledo, Cordoba and Seville. Throughout the tour we also enjoy the beautiful Spanish culture and visit some of the primary sites that attract tourists from all over the world. Includes Shabbat in Gibraltar!

French Provence - June 19 - 25, 2017

'The Arba Kehillot'

For centuries the Vaucluse region had been a relatively safe haven for Jews. Under the protection of the Avignon Popes the Jewish community flourished. Jews were permitted to live in Avignon, Carpentras, Cavaillon, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known as the Arba Kehilot; the four holy communities.

This expedition, visits the Arba Kehilot and other famous villages in the area.  While studying Jewish life in these locales the tour also concentrates on learning about Jewish and non- Jewish Provencal art, literature and poetry as well as the enjoyment of Provencal life surrounded by the beautiful natural environment. We will stimulate your senses with top gourmet dining and vining.

Habsburg Empire - Sept. 4 - 13, 2017

The Habsburg Empire; Budapest, Vienna, Prague

During this expedition we learn about the chasm that existed between Jewish and Christian culture in early modern times and also learn about the bridging and transformation of this chasm during the process known as modernization. Budapest, Prague and Vienna were all important cities in the Habsburg Empire. Through the exploration of the Jewish and local culture of these cities we learn the history of the Habsburg Jews.

Slovakia

Jewish Slovakia 

This expedition offers you in depth insight in the Jewish culture and history of Slovakia and gives you the opportunity to improve your photographic skills under the guidance of a professional photographer and teacher. From Bratislava, by many known under its old name 'Pressburg', we follow the 'Slovak Jewish Heritage Route', 24 Jewish sites around Slovakia, including synagogues, museums, architecture and cemeteries. Includes a visit to Vienna.

Morocco

2500 years of Moroccan Jewish life

This fascinating adventure takes you from the exotic charms of the wild Atlas Mountains, to the great Imperial cities with their kasbahs and 2500 year old communities with Jewish Quarters. If you wish to discover the great Jewish culture and take a sneak peek back into time, then this join this expedition and come and explore Moroccan Jewish life and experience the rich Jewish and Arab cultures and cuisine.